When And Where To See The Northern Lights In Alaska

The aurora borealis is a breathtaking tapestry in the Earth's atmosphere caused by

charged particles colliding with each other on the sun's surface during a heavy sun storm. The name comes from the Latin word "aurora", meaning "dawn" and "boreas", which is the Greek name for the north wind. The northern lights emit wonderful colors namely green, blue, red, and violet. An aurora borealis exhibition can last for up to ten or fifteen minutes.

There is a specific location where the northern lights can be seen, apparently 60 degrees north latitude. Fairbanks is lucky enough to be situated within the auroral zone at approximately 65 degrees, where the northern lights appear frequently and vibrantly. Travelers are guaranteed they will have at least 80% chance of witnessing the aurora if they stay in Fairbanks for three days, according to Fairbanks Visitors Bureau.

Denali is also the best second option when Fairbanks' hotels and accommodation are congested with tourists as it is situated at 63 degrees north. There are, however, several other Alaska places which offer a considerably fair view of the aurora but transportation and accommodation are difficult to access. Nome (64 degrees) and Anchorage (61 degrees) are the next good spots to consider. Needless to say, the aurora can sometimes be seen in Sitka or Juneau, both situated far south.

The months of April until September are considered to be the season of eternal twilight if you reach the farthest north of Alaska just to see the aurora. Clouds can be your worst enemies during the month of August.

The northern lights are observed to be frequently showing up around fall and spring equinoxes, particularly on the 22nd of September and March and they seem to love playing around with the spectators appearing on unusual times of the day such as late in the evening, when everyone is ready to go to sleep and early in the morning, when everyone is dragging to get up from bed. Reports show that the aurora is strongest from December to March, when travelers are struggling to keep themselves warm because the temperature can go as low as -40 Fahrenheit during these months. Persistence is required for anyone wishing to see this great wonder of nature.

In order for you to see the northern lights clearly, you need to stay away from the city and avoid the city lights. Expect Ester Dome to be jam-packed during peak season primarily because the place offers perfect horizon-to-horizon view.

by: Sandra Najera

POST COMMENT

Seasonal Hiring: How To Be Legal, Ethical, And Productive Popular Club Gadgets - Lighting Controller Dmx When And Where Can We See The Northern Lights Compression Between Helicopters And Private Jets When And How To See The Aurora Borealis In Iceland With Precision Pros And Cons Of Using School Stickers As A Way To Recognise Outstanding Students In School What Is Success And How To Be A Success What Are Hho Kits And How Do They Benefit You? What Causes The Northern Lights In Alaska And How Do They Look Like What Causes The Aurora Borealis In Alaska And The Best Places To See It Wedding Guest Dresses: Summer And Springtime Suggestions What Are Northern Lights And When Can You See Them Both Employers And Candidates Can Benefit From Choosing The Right Recruitment Agency